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Episode #249: Autism Out Loud with Kate Swenson

“I can’t be the only one who feels this way.” That was the thought that led Kate Swenson to use her passion for writing to share her family’s journey. Kate is the founder of Finding Cooper’s Voice and the author of Finding Cooper’s Voice and Autism Out Loud. Her work highlights that autism is a family diagnosis, and she has made it her mission to connect the community, start conversations, and give families a voice.

Kate and I talk about the isolation many families feel after an autism diagnosis and how simple acts of presence and connection can make a difference. Sometimes autism makes it harder for families to leave the house and their world feels smaller—just being there, talking, and offering support can open doors again.

We also discuss the importance of creating opportunities for families to spend time together. For Kate’s family, that joy is found in boating—something they made accessible for her son and enjoyable for everyone. She encourages families to get comfortable hosting, bringing fun and community into their own homes when going out feels too difficult.

Through her writing, her membership communities on Facebook and YouTube, and the platform she has built with Finding Cooper’s Voice, Kate is helping families feel seen, supported, and less alone.

#autism #speechtherapy

Today’s Guest:

Kate Swenson, founder of Finding Cooper’s Voice, launched her website in November of 2014 in secret from her living room. She knew something was different about her son. She knew she was sad and confused and that it was a lot harder than it should be. She also knew she didn’t want anyone else to ever feel this alone in their feelings. She searched for a safe space, both online and in person, and couldn’t find one. So, she created one. Today her community, both virtual and in-person, consists of over 1.5 million people and reminds people that they are not alone. In 2021, during the heart of the pandemic, Kate co-founded a nonprofit called The More Than Project that brought free mental health counseling to caregivers in need. Since its launch, her focus has turned to in-person retreats, like events for hundreds of female caregivers twice a year to come together to laugh, cry, share, and learn. In April of 2022, Kate’s first book, Forever Boy: A Mother’s Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy was published and quickly became a National bestseller. In April of 2025, Kate published her second book, Autism Out Loud, which became an instant New York Times Best Seller. She is currently writing her third book now. Kate, her husband, and four kids live in Minnesota.

What’s Inside:

  • Creating a space for autism families.
  • Discovering leisure activities for the whole family.
  • Finding community in the isolation of autism.

Mentioned In This Episode

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